Common Barley

(Hordeum vulgare)

Common Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Hordeum vulgare image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Hordeum vulgare, commonly known as Common Barley, is an annual grass that is believed to have originated in the Fertile Crescent. It is a major cereal grain cultivated in a variety of temperate climates worldwide. Barley is a versatile crop that can be grown as a summer crop in temperate regions and as a winter crop in tropical areas. It typically germinates within one to three days. While barley prefers cool growing conditions, it is not highly winter-hardy. However, it does exhibit greater tolerance to soil salinity compared to wheat and has a relatively short growing season. Barley is also known for its drought tolerance.

Common Barley is valued for its rapid growth and adaptability to different climates and soil conditions. It is primarily cultivated for grain production, but also serves as animal fodder, and is used in the brewing industry for making beer and other alcoholic beverages. In terms of cultivation, it thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, performing best in soils with medium or slow drainage. While it is not known for ornamental use, its ability to grow in a variety of conditions makes it a staple crop in agriculture. Gardeners should be aware that Hordeum vulgare can be extremely invasive outside its native range, particularly in the United States, and should check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 0.2-0.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Winter
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Originated in the Fertile Crescent

Other Names

Common Names: Barley, Cereal Barley, Almindelig Byg, Saat-Gerste, Zweizeilige Gerste, Orzo, Korn, Bori, Ō-Mugi, 大麥;二棱大麥

Scientific Names: , Hordeum vulgare, Hordeum sativum, Hordeum vulgare subsp. vulgare, Hordeum violaceum, Hordeum vulgare var. pallidum, Hordeum vulgare subsp. hexastichon, Hordeum vulgare var. medicum, Hordeum vulgare var. parallelum, Hordeum vulgare var. coeleste

GBIF Accepted Name: Hordeum vulgare L.